Chaine Rejects Comparisons With Pirates Legends
Sipho Chaine has dismissed comparisons with late Orlando Pirates legend Senzo Meyiwa, insisting that it is difficult to compare yourself to players you grew up admiring.
The 29-year-old etched his name into the history books after recording 21 clean sheets during the 2025/26 season — the highest tally ever achieved in Premier Soccer League history.
Chaine played a crucial role in Pirates’ remarkable campaign as the Buccaneers secured a domestic treble, winning the MTN8, Carling Knockout and, most importantly, the Betway Premiership title to end a 14-year wait for league glory on Saturday.
Despite his impressive achievements, the Buccaneers goalkeeper remains humble.
Chaine admitted that he does not feel worthy of being compared to iconic Pirates goalkeepers such as Meyiwa and Moeneeb Josephs.
“It’s a special feeling to be able to represent this club,” said Chaine.
“It’s quite remarkable. People always ask where you rank among the past goalkeepers.
“Some things are priceless. You can’t compare yourself to somebody you looked up to. You can’t put yourself in the same sentence as people who helped shape who you are.
“It’s like your mentor — someone you will always admire, no matter what you achieve. I still see myself as that little kid from Bloemfontein looking up to Senzo Meyiwa and Moeneeb Josephs.
“For me to now be filling those kinds of shoes is something special. Hearing those comparisons throughout the season has been really meaningful.
“I feel honoured to be where I am today, even though I still don’t feel worthy of it.”
In total, Chaine featured in 39 matches across all competitions, keeping 25 clean sheets. However, despite his outstanding campaign, his place in Bafana Bafana’s FIFA World Cup squad is still not guaranteed.
